Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, has become widely known as a case study of human induced environmental catastrophe resulting in culture collapse. But what is Easter Island, really? Take the opportunity to study this mysterious island during the summer Honors Research program led by Dr. Terry Hunt, Dean of the Honors College. Students will research and collect evidence on the cultural adaptation of the people on this island over time before coming in contact with the outside world.

Academics

Tentative 2019 dates: July 8 - 28 (Abroad); Additional time in Tucson and satellite as determined by instructor (tentatively July 28 - August 7)

Students participating in the Honors Research program on Easter Island will receive the following credit:

HNRS 395H Independent Study (3 units)

HNRS 396H Honors Proseminar (3 units)

Faculty

Dr. Terry Hunt, Dean and Professor of the Honors College

Robert DiNapoli, Graduate Student at the University of Oregon

Location

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui

Easter Island has become widely known as a case study of human-induced environmental catastrophe resulting in cultural collapse. The island's alleged tragic history is offered as a cautionary tale of our own environmental recklessness and fliration with catastrophe on a global scale. Much of the program will focus on the post-European history of the island and explore how and why this most isolated and remarkable culture adapted over prehistory.

Housing

Students will stay together in a home on the island, approximately 1.5 miles from the main town. Rooms will be shared, and students will have access to other communal spaces in the home including a kitchen, living room and patio. Note: There will not be wifi in the home, so students are highly encouraged to have an international data plan during the program.